Chapter 426: My Idol
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Elizabeth Taylor quickly became pregnant with Hardy's child, and her wish came true within two months. As a result, a new film she was supposed to star in was put on hold. The timing seemed to align with the year's events, as Ava and Heidi Ramah were also expecting. Heidi and Hardy's relationship had been infrequent, but it led to her becoming pregnant.
"Heidi, can I have this baby? You don't need to be responsible; I can raise her alone."
"Of course, the child must be born. I'm not an irresponsible person. As long as it's my child, I'll be responsible for it," Hardy said, pretending to be displeased.
The child would eventually be included in the Hardy family tree and become a beneficiary of the Hardy Family Trust. Heidi Rama embraced Hardy, thrilled by the news.
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On a plane to Australia, Andy and Hardy were casually chatting.
"Hong Kong's Yezhen, Princess Margaret, and Elena have all given birth. Now Ava and Heidi Ramah are pregnant as well. Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn will likely follow suit. Hardy, how many children do you plan to have?"
Hardy responded with a smug smile, "My idol is King Zhou Wen."
"Who is King Zhou Wen?" Andy asked, puzzled.
"He was a founding monarch in ancient China who established the Zhou Dynasty. Over 3,000 years ago, and the dynasty lasted more than 800 years."
Hardy elaborated on Chinese history.
"Wow, that's longer than the Roman Empire," Andy said in surprise.
"Yes, Zhou Wenwang was initially a fief lord under the previous dynasty. He later overthrew the Shang Dynasty and built a powerful empire."
"It's said he had countless wives and over a hundred sons."
Andy's eyes widened. "Goodness, don't tell me you want to have a hundred children too?"
"That's quite a challenge, but I'll do my best," Hardy said with a cheeky grin.
Andy looked at Hardy with a mix of admiration and exasperation. Despite Hardy's many qualities—his keen business insight, charm, and leadership—his approach to relationships was less conventional. Even though he was married to Princess Margaret, he had numerous other women in his life, yet Margaret seemed unfazed.
"What about you, when do you plan to get married?" Hardy asked.
Since meeting Zhu Xijun in Penang and with her studying in the U.S., Andy and Zhu Xijun had been together for over two years. They were now considering marriage.
"I plan to propose after graduation," Andy said, content with his relationship.
"Let me know before you tie the knot," Hardy said.
"And why is that?"
"I'll prepare a gift—a private yacht or jet. Your choice," Hardy offered.
"Wow, the boss is being generous. I'll take the yacht, then. It's worth more than a plane and will be on par with yours," Andy said with a grin.
Hardy pretended to be distressed. "Since I promised, I won't go back on it."
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The plane landed in Perth, Australia, where Hardy and Andy were greeted by the mayor. Hardy, a VIP due to his immense wealth and status, was warmly welcomed. Australia is a Commonwealth country, and its leaders are called prime ministers, with an enduring link to British nobility.
Hardy's mining company, which has expanded its investments significantly, was flourishing. The company now operates large-scale iron, coal, copper, and gold mines across Australia and other regions, including Canada, Brazil, Peru, Chile, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.
Hardy Mining is now among the world's top three largest mining companies, with substantial mineral reserves and production capabilities.
The president of the mining company, Matthew, and vice president, Columbus, briefed Hardy and Andy on the company's development. After a day in Perth, the two flew to Penang to inspect their other interests.
They discussed various industries, including the potential of the spice business. Hardy suggested setting up a specialized spice company and producing standardized spices for global distribution. He also proposed leveraging their existing catering businesses to develop proprietary spice blends.
Andy noted the idea and agreed to explore it further.
Spice companies, though less glamorous, can be highly profitable on a large scale. Hardy's entry into this market seemed promising.
Upon arriving in Penang, Hardy was greeted by Han Yezhen and their children, Byrne and Annie. The children were adorable, and Hardy was delighted to see them.
The next day, Andy visited Zhu's family to propose to Zhu Xijun. The Zhu family welcomed him warmly, and Zhu Yunquan, the family head, gave his blessing.
"Thank you, Uncle," Andy said sincerely.
"Thank you, Dad," Zhu Xijun added, blushing.
The engagement news quickly spread, with the Zhu family likely sharing it with excitement.
Hardy, upon hearing the news, joked with Han Yezhen about his own romantic exploits. "Look at me, surrounded by so many beautiful women."
Han Yezhen playfully retorted, "Yes, you have quite the harem."
Laughing, Hardy picked up Han Yezhen and headed to the bedroom. "Let's have another baby tonight."
Though Han Yezhen was shy, she responded warmly. "Even with so many admirers, I'll cherish you tonight."
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